Areas of specialty I assess a range of people facing criminal or civil proceedings and who are likely to appear before the Court or Parole Board. My assessments are aimed at helping those in the legal professions to understand why people came to offend, the likelihood of them re-offending (risk assessment), and potential treatment and management options. Many of these cases pertain to alleged sexual offending, an area that I have specific expertise in. Particular issues assessed include fitness to stand trial, insanity, sentencing reports (including those facing preventive detention and extended supervision orders), Parole Board hearings, interrogative suggestibility, malingering, denial of offending, neuropsychological factors, issues pertaining to memory (as a victim or perpetrator), allegations of childhood sexual abuse, intellectual disability, capacity/consent, or treatment options available. I frequently provide second opinions for those who have had assessments done under the Department of Corrections or other providers. While I conduct a lot of treatment in my role with the Forensic Psychiatric Service, I have only taken on a small number of treatment cases in my Private Practice. While I am open to negotiate treatment options, the main thrust of my work pertains to assessments. Given my interest areas, I also lecture post-graduate students of the University of Otago about sexual offending and associated risk assessment.

Academic Qualifications

BA (University of Pretoria, South Africa)
BA (Hons) Psychology (University of Pretoria, South Africa)
MA (Clinical Psychology) (University of South Africa)
Diploma in Industrial Relations (The Institute of Administration and Commerce of Southern Africa)
Diploma in Personnel Management (The Institute of Administration and Commerce of Southern Africa)

Professional Qualification

I am registered with the New Zealand Psychologists Board in the Clinical Scope of Practice

Professional Affiliations

Member of the New Zealand College of Clinical Psychologists (NZCCP)
Clinical Member of the Australian and New Zealand Association for the Treatment of Sexual Abuse (ANZATSA)
Member of the Australia and New Zealand Association of Psychiatry, Psychology and the Law (ANZAPPL)

Experience and current work environments

I have practiced Clinical Psychology for 15 years, the last 11 of which have been devoted to Forensic Psychology in New Zealand. I currently work for the Forensic Psychiatric Service (Canterbury District Health Board) as well as having a Private Practice (CPSM Consultancy Ltd). I prepare reports for the Court as requested by both the Crown and defence, and testify in court as an expert witness, if required.

Approach to the work

I understand that people facing the criminal justice system are often feeling overwhelmed, frustrated, disillusioned, and apprehensive about the way in which things proceed. It is my role to complete a comprehensive assessment that provides you and your lawyer with the necessary information to make an informed decision about how to proceed with your case. I take a non-judgemental, unbiased approach to each case.
Depending on the case, I am likely to ask about your background, work history, relationships, mental health issues, substance use, and offending to name a few. At times, I rely on psychological “tests” to provide additional information. I also rely on a number of internationally recognised tools to help assess level of risk. In the end, I attempt to provide an overview or formulation about what led people to do what they did. Finding ways to manage difficulties are recommended (if necessary).
I have experience in treating a range of difficulties in those with mental health issues and/or offenders, using both individual and group treatment processes based on a model of

Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT)

Finally, I remain up-to-date with the current literature in the area, attend training workshops and conferences, and receive (confidential) peer supervision around my work. I have a strong commitment to working ethically.

Fees and services

My rates are $170 (incl GST) per hour of work. Cases vary significantly but on average, a complete assessment and report takes about 12-13 hours. Court appearances infer additional costs. A vast majority of these reports are funded by Legal Services Agency and can be arranged through lawyers.

Availability

I am relatively flexible around times and days-of-the-week. As assessments can last a few hours, it is usually best to contact me directly and discuss what is required.

Contact details

Craig Prince
PO Box 5311
Papanui
Christchurch 8542

Telephone: 0274973598
email: craig@christchurchpsychology.co.nz